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Category Archives: Geotourism

The Historic Columbia River Highway between Bridal Veil and Ainsworth State Park has reopened. This section of highway has been closed since the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Visit TripCheck.com for current road conditions. Winter weather may force closures of the Historic Highway. You can now drive The Highway between Exit 22, Crown Point and Vista House to Exit 35 off of Interstate 84.

Imagine crafting a national treasure on a landscape so beautiful that each viewpoint is protected and people come from all over the world to marvel at its perfection. This is the Historic Columbia River Highway. Whether you are seeing it for the first time or you know every inch by heart, each time you drive, bike, or hike along the Historic Highway, you begin the journey anew.

Construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway began in 1913 and was considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the modern age.

As its name implies, the Byway is incredibly rich in cultural history. This stretch of the Columbia once served as fishing and meeting grounds for the many indigenous peoples of the Columbia Basin. Oregon Trail Pioneers also traveled down the Columbia in the mid 1800s.

When the highway first opened in 1916, Teddy Roosevelt praised its scenic grandeur and remarkable engineering. And The Illustrated London News went on to call it “the king of roads.” With its mossy stone walls and graceful viaducts winding past dozens of waterfalls, this All-American Road still reigns as one of the world’s most glorious drives.’

Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State B&B Association and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads. Enjoy our series of scenic bikeways, byways, and tours posts, helping you to create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon. Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information

Start planning your road trip through the Columbia River Gorge by booking a room at either a Portland or Mt Hood Region bed and breakfast of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

The videos of Travel Oregon’s Oregon, Only Slightly Exaggerated reveal whimsical scenes of enchanting forests, vineyards, rivers, mountains and more, and share with you that magical feeling of being in Oregon.

Now the captivating artwork is coming to the real world, proudly hand-painted on walls in Oregon where the illustrations represent the destinations. Let the Oregon Mural Trail inspire you to get outside and experience the wonders of each community. Take photos of the murals and use the hashtag #OregonIsMagic in social posts to share the love. And while you’re there, visit the landmarks and businesses that make these towns just so magical.

The featured mural is in Ontario’s Red Apple Mall. At Oregon’s eastern edge and in a different time zone, Ontario is the gateway to desert beauty, stunning river canyons and towering mountain ranges. Any time of year, this little town is a great sunny destination and basecamp to outdoor adventures at the Owyhee Canyonlands, Lake Owyhee, Pillars of Rome and more. Make time for Four Rivers Cultural Center and Museum, which honors the area’s cultural heritage, Native American, Basque, European, Hispanic and Japanese.

There are several Oregon Trail Sites sights from the Idaho border to Baker City, the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers living history demonstrations, interpretive programs, exhibits, multi-media presentations, special events, and more than four miles of interpretive trails. From the top of Flagstaff Hill you can still see the trail running out across the plains.

Baker City Blue Door will be the first member in of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild as you travel into Oregon. The historic home of two prominent Oregonians, the Inn is a simple and elegant get-away to rest and relax. Located on a tree-lined residential street, the inn is in the heart of historic downtown Baker City.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

The videos of Travel Oregon’s Oregon, Only Slightly Exaggerated reveal whimsical scenes of enchanting forests, vineyards, rivers, mountains and more, and share with you that magical feeling of being in Oregon.

Now the captivating artwork is coming to the real world, proudly hand-painted on walls in Oregon where the illustrations represent the destinations. Let the Oregon Mural Trail inspire you to get outside and experience the wonders of each community. Take photos of the murals and use the hashtag #OregonIsMagic in social posts to share the love. And while you’re there, visit the landmarks and businesses that make these towns just so magical.

The featured mural was dedicated yesterday in The Dalles,Oregon. A historic city on the sunny eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge, The Dalles is fortunate to have easy access to rivers, hiking trails and scenic drives.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

October is National Apple Month

October is recognized as National Apple Month and Oregon is among the leaders in fine apple production. Apples are a member of the rose family of plants and the blossoms are much like wild-rose blossoms. Oregon produces over 21 commercial apple varieties, with Fuji and Gala leading the state’s production but we know of one orchard, Kiyokawa Family Orchards in the Hood River Valley that grow over 90 different varieties! The state’s rainfall and mild climate make it a prime location for apple orchards. The most orchards can be found in Oregon’s northwestern region near and around Portland. In 2015 Oregon produced an estimated 110 million pounds of apples.

In 1847, Henderson Luelling brought more than 700 one year old grafted fruit trees from Iowa to Oregon by ox-team along with his wife and 8 children. Today, in front of a military building in the city of Vancouver, WA, an historic apple tree with a plaque on it records the following story: ‘In 1847, Henderson Lewelling, know for promoting the fruit industry in Iowa, Oregon, and California, came to Oregon in a covered wagon with his wife, children and 350 fruit trees that had survived the long journey.’ It goes on to say ‘By 1850, their first crop produced 100 apples. It was the time of the Gold Rush in California, and when they rushed to San Francisco with the apple crop, prospectors were so hungry for fresh fruit that he sold them for $5 each. They used the money to build more orchards.’

Today, the Hood River Valley is one of the major growers of apples. Kiyokawa Family Orchards in the Hood River Valley have been growing the finest produce available since 1911. The fertile soils found at the base of Mt. Hood and rarified, glacier-fed water sources create a unique growing environment. The Kiyokawa’s take pride in promoting local and sustainably grown produce and utilize a farm management system that incorporates best management practices.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Pumpkins, Pinot and Pears. The Oregon Bounty harvest is on.

Did you know that over 80% of the pears in the world were grown right here in Oregon? Mostly in the Hood River Valley in Northern Oregon. It’s the perfect time to take that drive called the “Fruit Loop” in Hood River, Oregon. Winding through orchards, farms, roadside stands and vineyards, the Fruit Loop sounds like a perfect thing to do while you are visiting an Oregon Bed & Breakfast. Don’t forget to pick up some fresh fruit and a homemade pumpkin pie, or apple, or pear, or cherry. They all go great with the Oregon Pinots.

And then there’s the Pinots. Harvest of that lovely fruit that makes Oregon so famous for it’s wines will soon begin. Oregon’s prize winning, world renown, and absolutely palate pleasing wines are featured not only at our inns, but everywhere you go in Oregon.

Pairing some of Oregon’s wines with a few slices of several varieties of pears and of course pumpkin pie, makes for the perfect Autumn afternoon.

While you’re here search recipes, and see what dishes our innkeepers are making with Oregon’s “never ending harvest!”

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Central and Eastern Oregon Museums Worth making the trip

The Central and Eastern Oregon museums will take you back in time. A glimpse into an ever changing Oregon, it’s indigenous people, hearty immigrants, and hard working cattlemen.

Tamástslikt Cultural Institute where the history, culture and hospitality of the people who have lived on this land for more than 10,000 years comes alive. More than just a museum, Tamastslikt celebrates the traditions of Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla Tribes.

High Desert Museum, in Bend, Oregon, is nationally acclaimed and is dedicated to broadening the understanding of the High Desert’s wildlife, culture, art and natural resources.

At daily shows and demonstrations, wildlife experts will help you learn about the Museum’s more than 100 wildlife creatures — from porcupines, golden eagles and owls, to bats, lizards, snakes and spiders. In the Birds of Prey Center you will have a rare opportunity to get a close-up look at some of nature’s fiercest predators – owls, hawks and eagles.

Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Sitein John Day, Oregon, is a must-see for anyone with an interest in Oregon history. This structure was built as a trading post on The Dalles Military Road in the mid-1800’s. Chinese businessman Lung On and herbal doctor Ing Hay worked out of this building. Dr. Hay administered care to the Chinese gold-mine workers, pioneers, and others from the John Day area and beyond by using traditional Chinese remedies. Built to preserve the legacy of the Chinese workforce in Oregon, the museum contains artifacts and displays that share some of the trials of everyday life of these people.

They walked for 2,000 miles…men, women, and children by the tens of thousands. The story of this journey comes alive today through the life-size exhibits at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker City. The museum offers living history demonstrations, interpretive programs, exhibits, multi-media presentations, special events, and more than four miles of interpretive trails. Let the innkeepers of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild share their knowledge of these unique museums and many other natural attractions in the beautiful and vast expanse of Eastern Oregon.

These are but a few of the many historical museum located in Central and Eastern Oregon. Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Wheeler County Central Oregon Events and Wilson Ranches Retreat

Wheeler County Events and Wilson Ranches Retreat for true Pioneer hospitality! At the ranch enjoy scenic horseback rides, cattle drives, hiking and 4X4 sunset ranch tours on a 9,000 acre working cattle ranch. Close to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, bass fishing, river rafting, and golfing.

Wilson Ranches Retreat can be your home base when visiting Central Oregon and attending Wheeler County Events.

Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival (July 6,7 & 8, 2018)
The Wheeler County Bluegrass Festival has grown steadily over its history and is noted for its pleasant rural atmosphere. The Festival takes place in the old pioneer town of Fossil in front of the beautiful brick courthouse, now over 100 years old.

Fossil Cruz-In (July 7, 2018)Bring your lawn chairs, relax and enjoy the car show and live music. Entries begin at 9:30am and close at 11:30am. Awards at approximately 3:30pm. $15 pre-registration; $20 day of show.

Wheeler County Fair and Rodeo (August 8-12, 2018)
A traditional small town, county fair complete with 4-H livestock exhibits, a parade, NPRA rodeo action, live music, and a whole lot of family friendly fun.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

May is Oregon Wine Month! Willamette Valley Wines writes “We celebrate Willamette Valley all year round, but especially during Oregon Wine Month, when the entire state joins in commemoration of our beloved industry for the month of May, offering special activities, tastings and promotions for the enjoyment of Oregon Wine.”

To celebrate Oregon Wine Month in May, wineries around the state come together to host collaborative events. These events offer unique opportunities to taste and experience a variety of producers with ease, and to gain a deeper understanding of the variances and specialties of many of Oregon’s diverse micro-climates. Some of these events are one-time affairs, some ongoing.

Less than 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, the Columbia Gorge AVA includes land surrounding the Columbia River, with vineyards and wineries in both Oregon and Washington. Due to the unique climate and geography found in The Gorge, this AVA exhibits a wide range of micro climates in a relatively small region. The innkeepers of the Columbia Gorge Region invite you to experience “A World of Wine in 40 Miles’

The Willamette Valley extends from Portland south to Eugene, and from the Coast Range to the Cascades. There are currently 316 wineries in the Valley and as many vineyards. Willamette Valley innkeepers can point you in the right direction.

Southern Oregon’s latitude and prevailing oceanic winds create a 7 month growing season that uniquely creates an ideal place to grow wine grapes. Southern Oregon Winery Association and our Southern Oregon Inn invites you to tour the 5 regions of Southern Oregon with over 150 wineries.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Tulips, Daffodils, Iris soon to bloom in the Willamette Valley

Tulips, Daffodils and other cut flowers will soon be in full bloom from now through April in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Spring has arrived and it’s a beautiful time to plan a trip to the Willamette Valley and the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, which opens March 23 and runs April 30. Enjoy the flowers along with a variety of activities each day and special events on the weekends. This time every year they open their fields and expand their operations to include taking bulb orders, cut flowers, potted tulips, a gift shop, other plants, and all sorts of food and activities on weekends.

Are you a painter or a photographer? Whether amatuer or professional I would imagine this would be an amazing place to spend some time. After a day in the fields, just up the road from Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm rest your head at a member inn in Oregon’s Willamette Valley

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Belle Pepper’s Bed and Breakfast

Belle Pepper’s Bed and Breakfast, in the historic McCully Mansion, is surrounded by an acre of lawns and gardens and bordered by the Wallowa River, making the setting is as lovely as the home. The B&B is just one block from Joseph’s charming main street, placing you within easy walking distance of galleries, restaurants, and other local businesses. Explore the year-round splendor of the trails and breathtaking Eagle Cap Wilderness, either on your own or with the expert care and leadership of our local wilderness guides. Hiking, backpacking, winter sports, hunting and fishing, all are available in the area.

Four well appointed rooms await you at Belle Pepper’s B&B as well as a hearty breakfast using only the freshest ingredients. Walk the grounds and visit the chickens that supply the eggs!

Belle Pepper’s Bed and Breakfast became the first bed and breakfast in Oregon to be recognized, in 2007, as a green lodging by Co-op America, which has since become Green America. The innkeeper, Pepper, also helped to pioneer the green lodging program for the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild, where we were among the first crop of green bed and breakfasts throughout Oregon.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.